Easy Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta

Short Description

This Easy Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect dish for a quick and satisfying meal. Tender, juicy chicken breasts are coated in a rich Caesar dressing and baked to perfection, creating a dish packed with flavor. Paired with a luscious, creamy Parmesan pasta, this recipe is a comforting, restaurant-quality meal that comes together effortlessly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Minimal Ingredients – Uses simple pantry staples for an easy-to-make meal.
• Quick and Effortless – Requires little prep and comes together in under an hour.
• Rich and Creamy Flavor – The Caesar dressing adds a deliciously tangy and garlicky kick, while the Parmesan pasta complements the dish with a velvety sauce.
• Family-Friendly – A crowd-pleaser that both kids and adults will enjoy.
• Versatile – Easily customizable with different proteins or pasta variations.

Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Caesar dressing
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Garlic powder
• Black pepper
• Cooked pasta (such as fettuccine or penne)
• Butter
• Heavy cream
• Minced garlic
• Chicken broth
• More grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Directions

For the Baked Caesar Chicken:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish lightly.
2. Prepare the chicken by seasoning it with garlic powder and black pepper.
3. Coat with Caesar dressing – Spread a generous layer of Caesar dressing over each chicken breast.
4. Top with Parmesan cheese – Sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for a flavorful crust.
5. Bake uncovered for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
6. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the sauce by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
5. Mix in Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine with pasta and toss until evenly coated.
7. Garnish with parsley if desired and serve alongside the baked Caesar chicken.

Variations

• Use different proteins – Swap chicken for salmon, shrimp, or tofu.
• Try a different pasta – Use spaghetti, rotini, or whole wheat pasta for variation.
• Make it spicy – Add a dash of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
• Healthier option – Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and opt for a light Caesar dressing.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: The chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. Reheat pasta on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to maintain creaminess.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought Caesar dressing?

Yes! A high-quality store-bought Caesar dressing works perfectly.

2. What’s the best pasta to use for this dish?

Fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti all work well, but any pasta of your choice will do.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the chicken in advance and bake it when ready. The pasta is best made fresh.

4. Can I use pre-grated Parmesan cheese?

Freshly grated Parmesan is preferred for the best texture and flavor, but pre-grated will work in a pinch.

5. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Caesar dressing is gluten-free.

6. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or cherry tomatoes make great additions.

7. What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute it with whole milk and a little extra butter for a lighter option.

8. How do I know when the chicken is done?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

9. Can I grill the chicken instead?

Yes! Grilled Caesar chicken is a fantastic alternative.

10. What’s the best way to reheat the pasta without drying it out?

Add a splash of milk or cream while reheating on the stovetop to keep it creamy.

Conclusion

This Easy Baked Caesar Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Pasta is the perfect balance of simplicity and indulgence. With its rich flavors, minimal prep, and family-friendly appeal, this dish is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Try it tonight and enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home!

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